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Tottenham didn't appear as if they came to play in the first half. Typically Tottenham comes out blazing in most matches, flying to dead balls and not letting the other team keep possession for very long. However, during today's first half, Tottenham seemed content just keeping possession and absorbing attacks from their opponent. This didn't appear to be a change in manager Ange Postecoglou's strategy, as the team maintained their high defensive line and a handful of players did play with the urgency Spurs' fans have grown accustomed to this season.

Spurs condemned to yet another defeat away in the Midlands

This lack of effort I believe stems from the teams inability to string together wins this season. The highs of this season have been incredible, It was only 11 days ago that this same squad blasted Southampton 5-0, a game that saw their opponents fire their manager a mere few hours following the conclusion of the match.

With that being said, the lows have been the pure opposite, and a 6-3 loss to Liverpool on Sunday, a game which Tottenham was never truly in a position to win, seems to have shaken the squads confidence.

Combine that with a game against an opposition that is flying high on a run of games they would've never expected to have this season, under a manager whose past history with Tottenham would lead his squad to play harder against them than anyone else, and you get a game like this.

The transfer window can not come fast enough. This team is in desperate need of reinforcements for their defense. Today they lined up with a patchwork back four that saw Archie Gray, a player who was a midfielder before he came to Spurs, lined up at centre back, Djed Spence, a promising young player, lined up at right back, Destiny Udogie, the teams only full-time defensive starter in the opening lineup today, at left back. Finally Radu Dragusin, a backup centerback, lined up next to Gray in the middle.

This was a plan that was forced on Ange Postecoglou due to injuries and fitness. Micky Van De Ven and Cristian Romero are both still out due to injury, and Pedro Porro has had a seemingly minor injury that has been nagging him in recent weeks. That injury kept Porro on the substitutes bench until the final minutes of todays match. Tottenham has to invest in their back four this transfer window if they want to turn this season around.

The fact is that Tottenham's depth on the back line wasn't strong coming into the season, and now that the entire starting back four has dealt with injuries this season, inconsistency has become the calling card of the Spurs' defense. Radu Dragusin, a player who does have promise as a centerback, is not built for the current system Spurs want to run.

The Romanian defender is built as the type of defender that thrives in a counter attacking system, one that absorbs pressure and then thrives off of long balls from their back four. Dragusin delivers deep passes over the top incredibly well, but his lack of pace has caused Tottenham problems all year, and It was a high-speed counter attack that led to the goal that defeated the Spurs today.

Finding some pacy central defenders who can step in for either Romero or Van De Ven should be goal number one for the club in January.

I'm going to say something that I don't believe most Spurs fans will agree with, but booting Ange Postecoglou will not solve the problem that Spurs are having. This squad has bought in to the system the Australian manager has installed, and if the team can get healthy and find some consistency, history shows that his team can go on runs. Postecoglou was unbeaten in his first 11 premier league matches as Spurs' manager, and that run was not a fluke.

This squad, when healthy, is built to thrive in the system Ange brings, but the lack of health has exposed the fatal flaw in the squad, which is the depth. Tottenham fans can point back to multiple points over the previous decade where the club has decided not to dig deep into their wallets and spend money investing in a team, and even one of the Spurs' own players has pointed this out this season.

Cristian Romero, in an interview with Telemundo Deportes following Tottenhams 3-4 defeat against Chelsea on December 8th, said this when asked about Tottenham's lack of investment in their squad, "The truth is I would say no comment but... Manchester City competes every year, you see how Liverpool strengthens its squad, Chelsea strengthens their squad, doesn't do well, strengthens again, and now they're seeing results."

Spurs fans have been critical of Chairman Daniel Levy for years, and the truth is that until the club learns you have to spend to win, they will continue to lose. You can fire every manager that you bring in, but until you learn to invest in the players you put on the field, no manager is going to be able to achieve the goals the club's fans want them to.

Spurs next game will come against 18th placed Wolverhampton Wanderers on December 29th, a game that might give the Spurs a chance to head into the January window with a victory.

On Boxing Day, Spurs took the field as they took on Nottingham Forest at the City ground for gameweek eighteen of the 24/25 Premier League season.

For the task at hand, Ange opted for a line up of; Forster; Spence, Dragusin, Gray, Udogie; Kulusevski, Bentancur, Sarr; Johnson, Son, Solanke.Â

How everything unfolded at the City Ground this Boxing Day

Within the first five minutes, Spurs had a breakaway in transition, but Son’s shot was very tame and straight at the goalkeeper. To his right was Johnson — back at his old stomping ground, and whom was in a very dangerous position, was clearly unhappy at the captain’s decision to shoot.Â

Just past the ten minute mark, Tottenham Hotspur linked Callum Hudson-Odoi was allowed far too much space to cut inside, but luckily fired his shot off target.Â

Twenty-eight minutes in, the hosts had the lead. After Spurs gave the ball away, Morgan Gibbs-White carried the ball forward, before slipping through Anthony Elanga with a through ball— who slotted into the bottom corner with a left footed finish. As he was bearing down on goal, Udogie was busy claiming an offside to the linesman, rather than trying to catch up to Elanga.

With essentially the last touch of the first half, Son struck a free-kick into the side netting. Ange’s side would go into the break with a 1-0 deficit and it all to do in the second half.Â

So, Spurs then have 45 minutes to break down a Nuno side with a lead to hold onto. Maybe the most predictable outcome of the season. This is being written at half-time, not full-time. It’s that obvious.

Seven minutes after the break, Forster steered an Elanga cross away, but only as far as Gibbs-White, whose effort he was able to save. From there, Spurs had a break, where they eventually wasted a corner. To make a change.

Minutes later, Johnson absolutely superbly took down the ball inside the Forest penalty area, taking Murillo out of the game, but his effort was saved by Matz Sels. By far the best chance Spurs had had all game.

Just after the hour mark, Nikola Milenkovic should have doubled the hosts lead, but headed over the bar from close range. Again, really poor defending from Spurs.

Ange responsed by introducing Maddison and Bergvall, whom replaced Bentancur and Sarr. With just under ten minutes to go, Werner and Porro replaced Son and Kulusevski. Then, Bissouma replaced Dragusin, who looked to have picked up an injury.

The game was summed up in stoppage time. Spurs had a chance to get a cross into the box, decided not to, lost the ball, and Spence was given a second yellow for stopping a counter attack.

A young Tottenham loanee could be heading back to North London earlier than expected as his loan spell abroad has yet to meet expectations.

While hopes were high at the start of the season, a series of setbacks have left the player struggling for both game time and form.

With the January transfer window fast approaching, the situation has taken an unexpected turn, leaving both the player and his parent club with decisions to make.

After joining his current club on loan, the player was determined to impress and prove himself after a disappointing previous season.

However, despite an encouraging start, his performances have faltered in recent weeks, leaving his future uncertain.

Alejo Veliz set to return to Tottenham in January

According to La Grada Radio, Espanyol may look to end Alejo Veliz's loan deal early, with financial concerns being a major factor.

The club has been struggling with economic difficulties and, as a result, needs to lower their wage bill before making any signings next summer.

As part of their efforts to balance their finances, the club could decide to send the loanee back to Tottenham in the upcoming transfer window.

Although the player had some impressive moments early in the season, including a match-winning goal and a hat-trick in cup competition, Alejo Veliz's form has since dipped.

He has struggled to secure a spot in the starting eleven and has only made a handful of appearances in recent weeks, which has led to growing uncertainty about his role at the club.

Reports indicate that the young player is open to the idea of returning to Tottenham early, signalling his willingness to accept a change in his situation if the loan is cut short.

This move would hurt his current club’s goals and raise concerns for Tottenham, as the loanee’s struggles in Spain have sparked doubts about his progress.

Tottenham’s next move

Tottenham will likely monitor the situation closely, as the loanee's development is key to his future with the club.

Given that the player is still young, there is room for growth, but his lack of influence in both his loan spells in Spain is troubling.

Should the loan end prematurely, Tottenham could consider sending him on another loan to a Championship club, where he could gain the first-team minutes necessary to regain his confidence and further his development.

While his potential is still recognised, Tottenham will need to think carefully about his next steps to make sure he gets the right chance to develop.

Whether he heads back to Spurs or finds another loan move, this next chapter could be key for his future.

In the summer of 2019, a deal that could have reshaped the Premier League collapsed, leaving one of Europe's most sought-after midfielders heartbroken.

Bruno Fernandes, then playing for Sporting Lisbon, was set to join Tottenham Hotspur, a club fresh from their Champions League final appearance under Mauricio Pochettino.

The move seemed like a perfect fit, but things did not go as planned.

Despite agreeing on a transfer fee, Tottenham and Sporting Lisbon were unable to finalise the deal, leaving Fernandes in Portugal for six more months.

Bruno Fernandes reportedly in tears after failed Spurs move

According to Football London, this setback left the Portuguese star devastated, reportedly shedding tears in his chairman’s office when he realised his dream of joining Spurs had fallen through.

However, that was not the end of Fernandes’ journey to the Premier League. In January 2020, Bruno Fernandes joined Manchester United for a £60 million fee.

His transfer to the Red Devils marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career, one where he quickly became a fan favourite at Old Trafford.

While Tottenham’s loss was United’s gain, Fernandes was initially shattered by the failed Spurs transfer.

As one unnamed source revealed to the Daily Mail, “That felt a bit typical at the time. When push came to shove, the club didn't get it done. Then the same thing happened with Luis Diaz at FC Porto. He ended up at Liverpool."

Despite this disappointment, Fernandes went on to prove himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.

Bruno Fernandes' impact at Manchester United

Since arriving at United, Fernandes has become a pivotal figure. With 259 appearances, 85 goals, and 76 assists, he has been one of the standout players for the club over the past few years.

His leadership qualities, fiery temperament, and consistent performances have earned him the captain’s armband, which he took over from Harry Maguire ahead of the 2023-24 season.

Under manager Erik ten Hag, Fernandes has flourished, becoming a key component of the team’s success.

However, Fernandes’ story is not just about success. His failed transfer to Tottenham remains a significant moment in his career, one that helped shape his journey to the top.

Even though the move did not materialise, Fernandes’ eventual rise at Manchester United shows that sometimes, setbacks can lead to new opportunities, and in his case, greater glory.

Tottenham's defensive frailties were on full display during their crushing 6-3 defeat to Liverpool.

One of the key moments in the match was the way Liverpool targeted a particular Tottenham player in their tactical approach.

Radu Dragusin, the young Romanian centre-back, found himself under intense pressure as the Reds sought to exploit his weaknesses in possession.

While Tottenham struggled to maintain any momentum throughout the match, Liverpool’s clear and focused game plan helped them control the game from start to finish.

The home side failed to find any rhythm and were repeatedly caught out as they tried to build attacks from the back. Liverpool, however, had identified where they could take advantage.

Ryan Gravenberch reveals the tactic of targeting Radu Dragusin to secure the win

Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, who played a key role in the midfield during the game, revealed the team’s approach after the 6-3 win

According to LFC TV, Gravenberch said that the Reds' strategy was to push Tottenham to build play from the right side, specifically targeting Dragusin.

The 22-year-old Dutchman explained: “We had a really good game plan. We wanted to keep them on the right side and press the right-sided centre-back.”

This tactical focus on Dragusin stems from his perceived weakness in possession, which has been a point of criticism in the past.

While he has shown improvement in recent months, Dragusin’s ball-handling under pressure still remains a potential vulnerability.

Gravenberch's comments suggest that Liverpool were keen to press him, forcing Tottenham to play out from the right and put Dragusin in situations where mistakes could be made.

Despite the concerted efforts from Liverpool, Dragusin's performance wasn’t entirely disastrous.

How has Dragusin performed at Tottenham?

Although he did make a couple of mistakes, particularly under pressure, he generally managed the ball well and made some solid decisions.

This is an important point, as it reflects Dragusin’s growth in recent months, despite being targeted by Liverpool.

Dragusin is still a young player learning the ropes in a high-pressure environment, and this match highlighted the challenges he faces against top-tier teams.

The strategic targeting by Liverpool worked, but it also showcased that Dragusin is continuing to improve and adapt to the demands of Premier League football.

For Tottenham, however, the loss served as a stark reminder of their defensive vulnerabilities and the need for adjustments moving forward.

Ange Postecoglou has won the support of his Tottenham squad since taking over at the club 18 months ago.

The Australian's high-intensity, attacking football has become a trademark of his tenure, and his side have shown plenty of promise on the pitch.

However, despite the general backing from the players, there are some concerns about the sustainability of his open, high-pressing system, especially after heavy defeats like Tottenham's 6-3 loss to Liverpool on Sunday.

The Spurs dressing room is known for its cohesion under Postecoglou, with players respecting the manager's methods and the lack of clashes, unlike previous regimes under Antonio Conte or Jose Mourinho.

Tottenham players are beginning to question Ange Postecoglou's system

According to The Spurs Web, a source inside the club has revealed that some players are starting to question whether the system is too open at times.

These concerns have become more pronounced following the crushing defeat to Liverpool, with many pundits suggesting that Postecoglou may need to tweak his tactics to succeed in the Premier League.

According to the source, the players believe that Postecoglou’s style is more nuanced than the public often perceives, but there is an ongoing debate about whether the team’s defensive fragility needs to be addressed.

“The players like and respect him (Ange). It’s not like with Conte or Mourinho. There is no clash, and his style of play is more nuanced than the outside world sees. But some players do wonder if it’s too open sometimes, that maybe he could switch it up occasionally.”

Despite these concerns, Postecoglou has remained steadfast in his approach, unwilling to change his methods just to appease external critics or even internal doubts.

Ange Postecoglou is clear about his opinion of himself

Quoted by The Daily Mail, Ange Postecoglou continues to have the full backing of the Tottenham squad, with all players supporting him.

He has always been clear about his philosophy, as seen in a past interview where he discussed the lessons learned from his time as manager of Australia's U-20s in 2007.

Reflecting on a period where he compromised his approach to safeguard his job, Postecoglou explained, "It was the only time I thought too much about job preservation. I compromised. The lesson I learned was I could never be successful if I did that."

Postecoglou’s refusal to adapt his tactics comes from a strong belief in his footballing philosophy.

He has vowed to never again compromise his methods for the sake of job security or media pressure, stating, “No one will tell me what to do anymore. Nobody’s gonna put me in a box. Basically, I don’t give a s*** what people think about me anymore.”

The journey hasn’t been smooth for Tottenham striker Richarlison, whose time in North London has been plagued by injuries and inconsistent form.

Once a standout in the Premier League with Everton, the Brazilian has struggled to replicate that success since joining Spurs.

These challenges have sparked rumours of a potential move away from the club, leaving fans curious about what lies ahead for the 27-year-old.

Richarlison’s situation has caught the attention of clubs beyond Europe. In South America, one familiar name is already extending an invitation.

But could a move back to his home continent be the reset he needs, or does he still have unfinished business in Europe?

Thiago Silva expresses interest in seeing Richarlison join Fluminense

Reports have linked Richarlison with a return to Brazil, with Fluminense among the clubs interested in bringing him back.

Former Premier League defender and current Fluminense star Thiago Silva openly expressed his desire to see the Tottenham forward join the Brazilian side.

Speaking via CNN Brasil, Silva stated: "Maybe in the future he could come back. Richarlison has a very big future ahead of him in Europe. Of course, if he decides to come to Fluminense, he’ll be welcome.

He’s going through a difficult time in his career, with injury after injury. But he’s a very good kid. I’m sure it will turn things around and there’s still a lot to do in Europe.”

Silva’s comments reflect support for Richarlison’s potential to overcome his current struggles.

However, the prospect of returning to South America is far from confirmed. At 27, Richarlison is still in his prime and has time to prove himself at the top level in Europe.

Can Richarlison turn things around at Spurs?

The Brazilian’s struggles at Tottenham are undeniable. Injuries have kept him sidelined for much of his tenure, while his performances when fit have failed to meet expectations.

Despite being signed to provide attacking firepower, Richarlison has yet to deliver consistently.

Ange Postecoglou, known for his attacking philosophy, was expected to revitalise Richarlison’s form, but setbacks have persisted.

Fans will remember his impressive stint at Everton, where he proved he could excel in England’s top flight. If luck turns his way, Richarlison could still make an impact at Spurs.

Now, Richarlison stands at a crossroads. Whether he fights to reclaim his form in Europe or opts for a return to Brazil, his next move could define the trajectory of his career.

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou faces the tough task of managing a squad plagued by injuries and suspensions, all while maintaining form in the Premier League.

As the festive fixtures approach, one decision has sparked curiosity among fans—why one of Spurs' most consistent contributors has been relegated to the bench.

Despite the challenges, Postecoglou has reassured supporters that his squad management strategy is designed to protect the team in the long run.

His latest comments shed light on how he plans to balance minutes while ensuring Tottenham remain competitive.

Ange Postecoglou promises Brennan Johnson will see more game time

The decision to shuffle players may have left some puzzled, but it highlights Postecoglou's intent to navigate the busy schedule without overburdening key members of the squad.

Brennan Johnson has been a standout performer for Tottenham this season, with 10 goals and three assists in 26 appearances across all competitions.

However, the Wales international has gone six games without scoring, and this dip in form has coincided with his recent benching.

According to The Boy Hotspur, during a Christmas Eve press conference, Postecoglou addressed Johnson’s situation: “Brennan just needs to keep doing what he’s doing, I’ve had Deki (Dejan Kulusevski) there and he’s done really well and scoring goals."

Postecoglou’s comments suggest that rotation is essential to prevent further injuries in a squad already stretched thin.

Despite limited minutes in recent matches, Johnson has continued to contribute, even providing an assist in Tottenham’s 6-3 loss to Liverpool.

The manager reassured fans and Johnson that the winger’s return to the starting lineup is imminent: “Brennan will get his minutes.”

Tottenham players' medical update

In addition to managing Johnson’s playing time, Postecoglou offered positive updates on squad fitness.

Destiny Udogie, who was deemed not fully fit against Liverpool, is expected to be ready for the Boxing Day clash with Nottingham Forest.

Furthermore, Rodrigo Bentancur’s return from suspension provides a timely boost to the team’s midfield options.

Postecoglou confirmed: "Destiny was on the bench but wasn’t 100% quite right and should be right. Bentancur is available after his suspension. That’s kind of it for now.”

With Tottenham sitting just outside the European spots, managing player workload will be crucial as they aim to climb the Premier League table.

Johnson’s contributions, paired with the squad’s growing depth, could prove vital in the coming weeks.

Tottenham Hotspur’s latest Premier League outing has sparked intense debate among fans and pundits alike.

While their attack offered glimpses of hope, it was their defensive frailties that became the focal point of conversation.

One voice leading the discussion is former footballer and analyst Clinton Morrison, whose sharp observations have left Spurs supporters reflecting on their team's direction.

Sunday's clash against a dominant Liverpool side was always going to be a tough test for Tottenham. However, few expected the scoreline to spiral the way it did.

The Lilywhites’ attempts to stage a late comeback showed determination but ultimately highlighted glaring issues in their overall setup.

Clinton Morrison delivers sharp critique

With Spurs now trailing in the race for Champions League qualification, the questions surrounding their tactical approach and defensive organisation are growing louder.

The 6-3 defeat to Liverpool was not just another bad day at the office for Tottenham. It was a performance that laid bare their defensive vulnerabilities.

Morrison, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, did not hold back in his assessment.

“Spurs are the most entertaining team in the Premier League — at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium you are guaranteed goals,” he remarked. “The big gaps Spurs allowed Liverpool, it made me upset. They are so frustrating."

Morrison attributed some of the issues to the team’s injury struggles, including Rodrigo Bentancur’s suspension: "Spurs fans want attractive football, but they are not even in the top 10. I get there have been injuries to the spine of the team, and they have lost Rodrigo Bentancur to suspension, but everyone has injuries."

Still, he emphasised that every team faces setbacks: “Even with your best XI you can’t go toe to toe with Liverpool. But he (Ange Postecoglou) is not going to change, he’s not going to keep the media onside."

How are Tottenham performing currently?

The loss puts Tottenham 11th in the league, a staggering seven points behind the Champions League spots. It also leaves them with just three wins from their last 11 matches across all competitions.

Tottenham’s schedule does not get any easier. Their Boxing Day trip to face Nottingham Forest, one of the league’s in-form teams, looms large. Following that, they host Wolverhampton, a side desperate for points.

Postecoglou still retains significant fan support, with many chanting his name even during the Liverpool debacle.

However, as Morrison pointed out, their current trajectory needs addressing if they are to salvage their season.

Spurs have shown they can entertain, but it’s time to prove they can compete consistently, especially against top-tier teams.

Whether Postecoglou tweaks his approach or stays resolute in his philosophy will define their upcoming fixtures — and perhaps their entire campaign.

There was optimism around the fanbase when Tottenham Hotspur announced the signing of Archie Gray from Leeds United in the summer. Despite being 17 for much of the 23/24 season, he had played a key part in Leeds’ season, and started the play-off final against Southampton in May. The acquisition made Gray the fourth most expensive 18-year old of all time.

Shoutout to Archie Gray amidst the tough hand given to him

What most fans assumed is that the teenager would play a fair chunk of games in midfield, whilst filling in at full-back if and when required. We are two days away from Christmas, and he has yet to start again in midfield.

He has come on in midfield a couple of times, whilst starting at right-back, left-back, and now as a central defender. All in a hugely makeshift backline + keeper, as well as even a makeshift midfield in front of him at times.

So, it is not just playing in defence that isn’t optimal. He is playing next to Radu Dragusin, who is clearly out of his depth. The only fit natural centre half. On the right side you have an absolutely shattered Pedro Porro, who is consistently out of position at the moment.

If the 18-year old played in a back four with Djed Spence (or a fresh Pedro Porro), one of Cristian Romero or Micky van de Ven, and Destiny Udogie next month – you would be able to see top performances, even at centre-half. There is being dropped into the deep end, and there is what Gray has had to endure this season.

Even in the Liverpool game, whilst not perfect – it’s pretty impossible to be when you concede six – there were still some good moments. For the second Mohamed Salah goal, he was unbelievably lucky. He did incredibly well to cut out a Cody Gakpo cross, that fell to Dominik Szoboszlai, whose shot was blocked by Gray, before falling to Salah. Poor guy.

Albeit poor opposition, he showed several good moments against Southampton, and made a brilliant intervention late on to keep the clean sheet in tact. He had another fairly good performance against Manchester United, with the goals not a lot to do with him.

Something Ange should consider is playing the England U21 international on the right, with Dragusin on the left. The Romanian defender is awful on the ball regardless, and playing Gray on the left side limits his angles somewhat. If they swapped, he would be able to carry it out of defence with greater ease.

Ideally, he will eventually be moved to central midfield, though this experience will help him in the future. You win or you learn in football. Would really love to see Gray and Pape Sarr patrolling the midfield together at some point.